Writing Subtext – Unveiling the Hidden Depths in Your Screenplay

Imagine a world where every conversation is stripped down to its bare essentials, where words have no hidden meaning, and actions are devoid of any underlying motives. Sounds dull, doesn’t it? Thankfully, in the realm of storytelling, we have a powerful tool at our disposal – subtext – that breathes life into our characters and their interactions, adding layers of complexity and depth.

In filmmaking, subtext is the unspoken undercurrent that flows beneath the surface of dialogue and actions, revealing the true motivations, desires, and emotions of characters. It’s the secret language that allows us to read between the lines, drawing us deeper into the narrative and creating a more engaging, immersive experience for the audience.

As a screenwriter, mastering the art of subtext is essential for crafting nuanced, multi-dimensional characters and compelling stories that resonate with viewers on a profound level. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of subtext, exploring its definition, history, and techniques for weaving it seamlessly into your screenplay.

What is Subtext, and Why Does It Matter?

Subtext, as defined by the legendary theater practitioner Constantine Stanislavski, refers to the hidden motivations and truths that lie beneath our words and actions. It’s the unspoken 90% that’s left unsaid, the deeper meaning that bubbles beneath the surface of every interaction.

Without subtext, our stories would be flat, one-dimensional, and predictable. It’s the secret ingredient that adds depth, complexity, and intrigue to our characters, keeping the audience engaged and invested in their journeys.

“Subtext creates layered and complicated characters and gives the audience something to decode. The chance to read between the lines keeps them engaged with the characters.”

By allowing the audience to decipher the underlying currents of emotion and intention, subtext creates a sense of active participation, inviting them to become co-creators in the storytelling process. It’s this engagement that forges a deeper connection between the audience and the characters, fostering empathy and understanding on a more profound level.

Techniques for Writing Subtext

While subtext may seem like a elusive and intangible concept, there are several techniques that screenwriters can employ to infuse their scripts with this powerful tool. Here are three main approaches to consider:

1. Embedding Subtext in Dialogue

One of the most direct ways to incorporate subtext is through dialogue. While some writers prefer a more straightforward approach, adding layers of subtext to your characters’ words can elevate their exchanges to new heights of complexity and intrigue.

Take, for example, the iconic line from “The Godfather”: “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse.” On the surface, it’s a simple statement, but the subtext speaks volumes – it’s a thinly veiled threat, a warning of the consequences that await should the offer be rejected.

Writers can achieve this by carefully crafting the dialogue itself, using ambiguous phrasing or double meanings to hint at the underlying intentions. Alternatively, scene descriptions and parentheticals can provide valuable clues to actors, guiding them in the delivery of lines laced with subtext.

2. Conveying Subtext through Actions

While dialogue is a potent vehicle for subtext, actions can often speak louder than words. A character’s behaviors, gestures, and interactions with their environment can communicate volumes about their inner thoughts and emotions, even when words fail to capture the full depth of their experience.

In the film “Panic Room,” a simple action – Meg pouring soda for her daughter Sarah – carries a powerful subtext: “We are in this together.” This small gesture conveys a sense of solidarity and support that transcends mere words, revealing the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter.

When writing subtext through actions, the adage “show, don’t tell” should be your guiding principle. Look for opportunities to reveal your characters’ true intentions and emotions through their physical expressions and interactions, rather than relying solely on dialogue.

3. Allowing Subtext to Unfold in Performance

While the screenwriter lays the foundation for subtext through dialogue and scene descriptions, it’s ultimately the actor’s performance that brings this underlying layer to life. Skilled actors can infuse their portrayals with nuanced body language, facial expressions, and vocal inflections that communicate volumes beyond the written word.

As a writer, your role is to provide the actor with enough context and clues to understand the character’s inner workings, allowing them to interpret and embody the subtext in their performance. This can be achieved through carefully crafted scene descriptions that hint at the character’s emotional state or internal conflicts.

In the film “Sound of Metal,” the simple act of Lou scratching her arm carries a profound subtext, representing the resurfacing of her self-destructive tendencies. This subtle action, coupled with the screenplay’s rich descriptions, allows the actor to communicate the character’s inner turmoil without relying solely on dialogue.

Scene Study: Mastering Subtext in “Sound of Metal”

To illustrate the power of subtext and how it can be woven into a screenplay, let’s examine a pivotal scene from “Sound of Metal,” written by Darius and Abraham Marder.

The scene takes place near the end of the film, when Ruben, a musician who has lost his hearing, reunites with his former girlfriend Lou after a period of separation. On the surface, their conversation revolves around reviving their band and pursuing a tour, but the subtext reveals a deeper truth.

As Ruben notices Lou scratching her arm – a behavior she previously exhibited during times of self-harm – the realization dawns on him: their relationship and the pursuit of their former life would only set Lou back, undoing the progress she has made. This epiphany is conveyed through Ruben’s poignant response: “It’s okay, Lou.”

The subtext behind these three simple words is layered and profound. It could mean that Ruben is releasing Lou from the responsibility of his well-being, acknowledging that they each must follow their own paths. Or it could signify his understanding that, while their separation is painful, it’s ultimately the right choice for both of them to continue growing and healing.

Through this masterful use of subtext, the Marder screenplay invites the audience to engage with the characters on a deeper level, decoding the hidden meanings and emotions that lie beneath the surface. It’s a prime example of how subtext can elevate a story, transforming it from a mere sequence of events into a rich, emotionally resonant journey.

Conclusion

In the art of screenwriting, subtext is the secret language that breathes life into our characters and stories, inviting the audience to become active participants in the narrative. By mastering the techniques of embedding subtext in dialogue, conveying it through actions, and allowing it to unfold in performance, you can create multi-layered, compelling stories that resonate with viewers on a profound level.

Remember, subtext is not merely an optional embellishment – it’s a fundamental aspect of crafting nuanced, emotionally rich characters and narratives that captivate and inspire audiences. Embrace the power of subtext, and your stories will rise above the surface, revealing the depths of human experience and emotion that lie beneath.